Eight potential landing spots for William Nylander if the Maple Leafs decide to trade him
Michael Traikos of the Toronto Sun: Even without William Nylander, the Toronto Maple Leafs are scoring a torrid pace. Kasperi Kapanen has recorded four points in five games and has been moved up to Nylander’s spot on the top line with Auston Matthews.
The Maple Leafs still could use some help on the blueline. If they decided to go down this path, the proper way is a deal like Ryan Johansen for Seth Jones and not like Taylor Hall for Adam Larsson.
Arizona Coyotes – 20-year old Jakob Chyrchrun has the size and skating ability and has the potential to be a top-two defenseman.
Carolina Hurricanes – The Hurricanes moved 25-30 goal scorer Jeff Skinner for picks and prospects and could look to recoup some scoring. Justin Faulk is a right-handed defenseman is kind of young, but the Leafs analytics guys would likely be looking at Brett Pesce.
Columbus Blue Jackets – Would need some scoring help when Artemi Panarin moves on. A Panarin for Nylander could be an option, but the Leafs could use a defenseman like Zach Werenski.
Edmonton Oilers – The Oilers could use a scoring winger for Connor McDavid. It would be funny if the Oilers offered Adam Larsson, but Darnell Nurse is a better fit. Leafs GM Kyle Dubas did draft Nurse back in the OHL.
Nashville Predators – The Predators could use an upgrade up front as they didn’t have a 30-goal scorer last season. Mattias Ekholm can log minutes and could help the Leafs PK, but they could use a right-handed defenseman – enter 27-year old Ryan Ellis.
New York Islanders – Could use scoring help, and could be a No. 2 center behind Mathew Barzal. Noah Dobson or Bode Wilde are a year or two away, so the Leafs could target Ryan Pulock.
New York Rangers – The Leafs wouldn’t be interested in Kevin Shattenkirk, but they target Brady Skjei.
Vancouver Canucks – Chris Tanev could be too old and banged up for the Leafs. The Canucks wouldn’t move Quinn Hughes. Would the Leafs be willing to gamble with Olli Juolevi or have Erik Gudbranson as a starter?